Donations pour in for SUNY New Paltz students experiencing need during COVID-19 crisis

SUNY New Paltz has raised more than $13,000 since March 31 to help students facing unexpected need during the COVID-19 crisis.

Approximately 87 donations from alumni, faculty, staff and other donors poured in over the last two weeks in response to an appeal by the SUNY New Paltz Foundation. The gifts will support the College’s Student Crisis Fund and the Crossing the Finish Line fund.

“We’ve been encouraged to see how many individuals are asking how to support students during this extraordinary time,” said Vice President for Development and Alumni Affairs Erica Marks. “Both the Student Crisis Fund and the Crossing the Finish Line fund give students hope by responding quickly to their needs in very difficult times.”

Gifts to the Student Crisis Fund meet immediate student needs, such as expenses for traveling home, food or health care. This is not tuition relief but support for essential academic needs (books and supplies) or for basic needs (such as short-term housing or transportation).

The Crossing the Finish Line Fund supports juniors and seniors when emergency financial challenges impact their ability to complete their academic program. Every gift to this fund (up to $100,000) will be matched by two anonymous donors—which doubles the value of each contribution.

Since the beginning of the 2020 fiscal year through April 10, the College has raised nearly $150,000 for these emergency funds.

“Students are going through so much uncertainty right now,” said Marks. “Emergency funds help provide them with much-needed stability as they continue their academic journey. Knowing someone cares about their success is a powerful motivator.”

Give now to the Student Crisis Fund and the Crossing the Finish Line fund!